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Purchasing Jobs in Kankakee, IL (NOW HIRING)

Independently lead RFP evaluation teams, conduct IFB, process purchase orders, change orders, and contract modifications or amendments. Prepare and review bids and make contract awards to the most ...

Buyer

Manteno, IL · On-site

Process purchase requisitions and issue purchase orders in a timely manner. * Obtain quotations from suppliers and support price comparisons. * Follow established procurement policies and procedures.

Spare Parts Specialist

Manteno, IL · On-site

$65K - $90K/yr

Role Summary The Maintenance Spare Parts & Purchasing Supervisor is responsible for managing the procurement, inventory, and availability of maintenance spare parts and MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and ...

Buyer

Manteno, IL · On-site

$70K - $110K/yr

Process purchase requisitions and issue purchase orders in a timely manner. * Obtain quotations from suppliers and support price comparisons. * Follow established procurement policies and procedures.

Purchasing, Bookkeeping, and Budget: Oversees funds for all projects and activities within TRIO; purchases goods and services needed by projects; uses appropriate account numbers and chartfields ...

Purchasing, Bookkeeping, and Budget: Oversees funds for all projects and activities within TRIO; purchases goods and services needed by projects; uses appropriate account numbers and chartfields ...

Spare Parts Specialist

Manteno, IL · On-site

$65K - $90K/yr

Role Summary The Maintenance Spare Parts & Purchasing Supervisor is responsible for managing the procurement, inventory, and availability of maintenance spare parts and MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and ...

BDC Representative

Peotone, IL · On-site

$14.75 - $19.50/hr

Re-engage customers who previously inquired but did not purchase. * Contact previous customers for trade-in, upgrade, and vehicle purchase opportunities. * Communicate current Chevrolet and Buick ...

BDC Representative

Peotone, IL · On-site

$45K - $65K/yr

Re-engage customers who previously inquired but did not purchase. * Contact previous customers for trade-in, upgrade, and vehicle purchase opportunities. * Communicate current Chevrolet and Buick ...

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Purchasing information

See Kankakee, IL salary details

$29.3K

$51.9K

$80.3K

How much do purchasing jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for purchasing in Kankakee, IL is $51,945.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,300.00 and $57,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a purchasing?

A Purchasing job involves the process of acquiring goods and services for a company or organization. Professionals in purchasing are responsible for sourcing suppliers, negotiating contracts, evaluating quality, and ensuring that needed materials are delivered on time and within budget. Their work is essential for maintaining smooth operations and helping organizations control costs. Purchasing roles can exist in many industries, ranging from manufacturing to retail and government. These jobs often require strong negotiation, analytical, and communication skills.

What are some common challenges faced by purchasing professionals and how can they be addressed?

Purchasing professionals often encounter challenges such as supply chain disruptions, fluctuating prices, and managing relationships with multiple vendors. Staying proactive by building strong supplier partnerships, maintaining clear communication, and using data-driven decision-making tools can help mitigate these issues. Additionally, collaborating closely with other departments like finance and operations ensures alignment on purchasing needs and helps streamline procurement processes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a purchasing professional, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Purchasing professional, you need strong analytical skills, negotiation abilities, and a solid understanding of supply chain management, typically supported by a degree in business, supply chain, or a related field. Familiarity with procurement software such as SAP, Oracle, or Coupa, and certifications like Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) are common requirements. Attention to detail, effective communication, and relationship-building are vital soft skills for managing supplier interactions and resolving issues. These competencies ensure cost-effective procurement, risk mitigation, and smooth operations within the organization.

What is the difference between Purchasing vs Procurement Specialist?

AspectPurchasingProcurement Specialist
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma or associate degree; certifications like C.P.M. are commonOften requires a bachelor's degree; certifications like CPSM are advantageous
Work EnvironmentOffice-based, handling purchase orders and supplier interactionsOffice and strategic planning, supplier negotiations, and contract management
Industry UsageUsed across various industries for buying goods and servicesMore strategic role, involved in sourcing and supplier relationship management

Purchasing focuses on the transactional aspect of buying goods and services, such as issuing purchase orders. Procurement specialists take a broader, strategic approach, including sourcing, negotiations, and supplier management. While both roles are essential in supply chain operations, procurement specialists often handle more complex negotiations and strategic planning compared to purchasing professionals.

Are purchasing jobs in demand?

Purchasing jobs are generally in demand across various industries as companies seek professionals to manage procurement, supply chain, and vendor relationships. These roles often require skills in negotiation, inventory management, and familiarity with procurement software, and employment growth depends on economic conditions and industry needs.

Is purchasing a good career?

Purchasing is a viable career that involves sourcing and acquiring goods or services for organizations, often requiring skills in negotiation, supply chain management, and familiarity with procurement software. It offers opportunities in various industries, with roles that can lead to management positions and require certifications like CPSM or C.P.M. for advancement.

What career paths exist in purchasing?

Career paths in purchasing include roles such as Purchasing Agent, Procurement Specialist, Category Manager, and Supply Chain Manager. Advancement often involves gaining experience, certifications like CPSM or CPM, and developing skills in negotiation, supplier management, and inventory control.

What does a purchasing job do?

A purchasing job involves sourcing, negotiating, and buying goods or services for a company to ensure quality and cost efficiency. Professionals in this role often use procurement software and need strong negotiation and organizational skills to manage supplier relationships and maintain inventory levels.

What are the most commonly searched types of Purchasing jobs in Kankakee, IL?

The most popular types of Purchasing jobs in Kankakee, IL are:

What cities near Kankakee, IL are hiring for Purchasing jobs?

Cities near Kankakee, IL with the most Purchasing job openings:

Infographic showing various Purchasing job openings in Kankakee, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,945 per year, or $25 per hour.

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Towson University rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

389th of 627 rated colleges and universities


Job description

  • Independently solicit, evaluate, award, and exercise contract renewals for low to high-dollar-value procurement but are not limited to information technology (IT), services contract, facilities maintenance, construction, commodities and or any other goods and services as assigned by the Procurement Director and Associate Procurement Director. Identify/screen new contract vehicles, validate customer sole-source and emergency justifications, and furnish end users with new contract vehicles, price, and data. Independently lead RFP evaluation teams, conduct IFB, process purchase orders, change orders, and contract modifications or amendments. Prepare and review bids and make contract awards to the most responsive and responsible bidder.

  • Independently provide proactive procedural/policy guidance and advice to Procurement customers to ensure fulfillment of the University's and the division's mission, goals, requirements, and schedules, and adherence to State of Maryland statues/regulations, Board of Public Works (BPW) advisories, USM Procurement Policies and Procedures, and best purchasing practices.

  • Independently advise end-users on new technology and contract vehicles etc. as appropriate. Consult on tactical issues (e.g., project planning, choice of contracting method, optimal source, term, and contract language, etc.). Remain current with USM, State of Maryland, and other contracts available for use by TU clients, to optimize available resources.

  • Independently interpret contract/acquisition law and requirements, representing the University in vendor negotiations as necessary to resolve issues and ensure best value. Resolve procurement issues between customers and suppliers, including difficult and complex contract modifications, disputes, claims and terminations.

  • Perform other duties as assigned.

  • Bachelor's Degree with at least two years of procurement related experience.
  • Knowledge of Maryland procurement statues/regulations, Uniform Commercial Code, Towson University and USM Procurement Policies and Procedures, and public-sector/higher education purchasing practices.
  • Skill in handling a variety of stakeholders, including campus customers, suppliers, elected/appointed officials, and the public. Skill in managing/resolving conflict and achieving consensus. Skill in technical writing, and public presentations--including persuasive writing/speaking.
  • Ability to organize large amounts of data, and to quickly grasp/assess a wide variety of markets and industries. Ability to be attentive to detail despite distractions/interruptions, to work under pressure, and manage competing priorities.
  • Ability to represent the University effectively in a variety of public settings, and to subordinate personal feelings/preferences to group goals.

Preferences

  • Two years' experience procuring information technology, IT consulting and services related procurement preferred.
  • Experience in higher-education or public-sector procurement strongly preferred.

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